Vietnam’s 10-year Golden Visa offers premier long-term residency for investors, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals. Launched to attract global talent and capital, this visa grants a decade of stability, freedom to work or study, and the ability to sponsor family members. Here’s your complete May 2025 guide.
What Is the 10-Year Golden Visa?
The 10-Year Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit designed for:
- Major investors who inject significant capital into Vietnam’s economy
- Entrepreneurs starting or running large-scale businesses
- High-earning professionals in strategic sectors
- Distinguished talents in science, technology, culture, and sports
Key Benefits:
- 10-year validity, renewable
- No local sponsor required
- Family sponsorship for spouse and children
- Freedom to live, work, study, and travel in/out of Vietnam at will
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Golden Visa, you must meet at least one of the following:
- Capital Investment
- Invest USD 200,000+ in a Vietnamese enterprise or a government-approved fund.
- Real Estate Ownership
- Purchase property valued ≥ USD 400,000 in approved developments.
- Enterprise Ownership
- Hold ≥ 50% equity in a registered Vietnamese company with a minimum charter capital of USD 200,000.
- High-Net-Worth Individual
- Bank balance or assets of USD 500,000+, certified by an international bank.
- Strategic Sector Expert
- Recognized professionals with at least 10 years of experience and a minimum annual salary of USD 100,000 in technology, finance, or healthcare.
Tip: Always verify the latest investment thresholds and sector lists on the Vietnam Immigration Department website.
Required Documents
Depending on your category, you will need:
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Passport copy | Valid for at least 13 months |
| Visa application form | Form LV10, completed and signed |
| Proof of eligibility | Investment certificates, property deeds, bank statements, or employment contracts |
| Company documents (if applicable) | Business registration, charter capital proof, shareholder list |
| Financial statements | Bank balance letter or audited statements |
| Curriculum Vitae & credentials | CV, diplomas, professional awards or recognitions |
| Criminal record certificate | From home country, translated and notarized |
| Medical certificate | Issued by an approved medical facility within 6 months |
| Health insurance | Valid Vietnamese health insurance policy |
| Photos | Four 4×6 cm color photos on plain background |
Fees & Processing Times
| Item | Fee (USD) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Visa application & issuance | 1,000 | 8–10 weeks |
| Residence permit book & sticker | 150 | Included in above |
| Visa extension (per 10 years) | 800 | 4–6 weeks |
| Medical examination | 50–100 | 1–2 days |
| Notarization & translation | 100–200 | 1–2 weeks |
Note: Fees are indicative; always confirm with the Vietnamese consulate or immigration website.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Determine Your Eligibility
- Choose the category that matches your profile (investment, property, professional).
- Prepare Your Documents
- Gather, translate, and notarize all required paperwork.
- Submit Application to Consulate or Immigration Office
- Apply at your nearest Vietnamese embassy or directly at the Immigration Department in Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City.
- Pay the Visa Fee
- Settle the application and processing fees via bank transfer or at the consulate.
- Undergo Medical Examination
- Complete your health check at an approved facility and obtain the medical certificate.
- Await Approval
- The Immigration Department will review your dossier and notify you of the decision (8–10 weeks).
- Collect Your Visa & Residence Permit
- Once approved, receive your visa sticker or e-visa, then collect your residence permit book/card.
- Register Temporary Residence
- Within 30 days of arrival, register your address at the local police station.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Early Preparation: Start document apostilles and translations 2–3 months in advance.
- Complete Dossier: Incomplete or inconsistent paperwork causes delays—double-check everything.
- Professional Assistance: Consider engaging a reputable local immigration service to navigate complex requirements.
- Maintain Investments: For investor and property categories, keep funds or assets in good standing until final approval.
- Stay Updated: Monitor policy changes on the official immigration portal for any threshold adjustments.
FAQs
Q: Can I work on a Golden Visa?
A: Yes—holders can freely work, start businesses, or study without additional permits.
Q: Can I include my family?
A: Absolutely. Spouse and dependent children can be sponsored under the same 10-year permit.
Q: How do I renew?
A: Apply for renewal at least 3 months before expiration, submitting updated proof of eligibility.
Q: Is travel restricted?
A: No. Golden Visa holders can exit and re-enter Vietnam multiple times within the permit validity.
Conclusion
The Vietnam 10-Year Golden Visa is a premier pathway for those seeking long-term residency and business opportunities in Vietnam. By meeting the eligibility criteria, assembling a complete document package, and following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be well on your way to securing your decade-long visa.